The Senate has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing women’s rights by pledging to introduce legislation that removes barriers to their progress across the nation. This announcement was made in commemoration of International Women’s Day.
As part of these efforts, lawmakers are pushing for a 35% affirmative action for women in the National Assembly and governance, aligning with the National Gender Policy and UN standards.
Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, made this commitment during a three-day event at the Senate to mark International Women’s Day 2025, themed “Economic and Political Inclusion: Walk the Talk.” The event aimed to inspire collective action and shared responsibility for gender equality in the country.
Addressing a gathering of women at the Old Senate Chamber, Sen. Akpabio assured that lawmakers would work to eliminate obstacles hindering women’s socio-economic progress and gender equality. He also emphasized his longstanding support for women’s empowerment, citing notable achievements during his tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State from 2007 to 2015.
Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, praised President Bola Tinubu for his dedication to women’s issues, revealing that his administration had increased the budget of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs by 1000%.
The event was attended by key figures, including Deputy Senate President Sen. Barau Jubrin and Senate Leader Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele. It was facilitated by Ms. Munis Abisola, Special Assistant on Public Hearing and Events to the Senate President, alongside Ms. Tabitha Sallah, Director of Media & Public Affairs.